RIYADH: Publishers are seeing a growing demand from readers in Saudi Arabia for Chinese literature as the two nations continue to strengthen cultural and political ties.
The Riyadh International Book Fair, which opened on Thursday, serves as a vital platform for connecting Saudi Arabia with the global community.
The event emphasizes the importance of translating international works into Arabic to foster cultural exchange, particularly with China.
A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic. It has already translated classics including “The Art of War” and “Three Kingdoms.”
Amr Moghith, the editorial manager of Bayt El-Hekma, said: “I see a demand from Saudis to learn the Chinese language. With every year, the demand for Chinese books increases.”
FASTFACTS
• Saudi Arabia has organized A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic.
• Saudi Arabia has organized several events to boost relations with China.
He added: “When the House of Wisdom Cultural Group was established, it was with the aim of building bridges between the Chinese and Arab cultures.
To foster cultural exchange, particularly with China, it is vital to translate international works into Arabic. (Supplied)
“This has been achieved cumulatively. Initially, the demand for Chinese literature was somewhat weak, although people were curious about Chinese culture, which has a rich history extending back over 5,000 years.”
Moghith said that while there are significant differences in the cultures of the Chinese and Arab worlds, the recent translations, both ways, have led to a surge in interest.
“The demand has become greater, especially since it brings together the Chinese and Arab cultures, which have had longstanding relations since the Silk Road,” he explained, referencing the ancient trade route.
To foster cultural exchange, particularly with China, it is vital to translate international works into Arabic. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
He said Chinese was now being taught in Saudi schools. “This is an important step that helps many Saudis learn about Chinese culture.
“China wants to convey that it is not just a manufacturing or trading country, but a civilization with deep historical roots.
“It seeks to communicate with countries in the East and the Middle East, particularly given the old relations.”
A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
In addition, Bayt El-Hekma, which was established in Egypt in 2011, aims to enrich the understanding of Chinese culture among Arabic speakers and operates an academy for those eager to learn the language.
Saudi Arabia has organized several events to boost relations with China.
For instance, on Sept. 26, the Museums Commission inaugurated the exhibition “The Writings of Today Are a Promise for Tomorrow” at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art at Jax.
This event marks the first showcase of contemporary Chinese artists in Saudi Arabia.
It highlights the efforts of the Ministry of Culture and Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission to enhance cultural exchange.
